Can Stoke sign the Beast?

Stoke City have confirmed that they have held talks with Hull City over the prospect of signing Jon Parkin on a permanent basis.

Parkin spent just a month at the Brit in the latter half of the last season after agreeing to stay for the remainder of the season, but was recalled early after recapturing his form with three goals in just six appearances.

He arrived looking very unfit and suffered from some cruel jibes from fans, but soon won them round with some extra training and good commitment.

Tony Pulis now believes that he is worth a punt as he is still looking surplus to requirements at the KC Stadium. Chief Executive, Tony Scholes opened negotiations with the Hull chairman at a recent League meeting, but this week's takeover of the east coast club look to have held up any deal for the time being.